Hi, I'm Nellwyn!

May 4 - Dustin Bentall & The Smokes @ The Cameron House -

West-coast native Dustin Bentall was in Toronto on Friday night to rock the front room at the Cameron House. The place was already nearly packed when I arrived around 10pm, and it only got busier when Dustin Bentall and the Smokes took the stage. Some fans likely remember them from their days opening for Canadian stars such as Blue Rodeo and Sam Roberts Band, but Dustin Bentall and the Smokes have the sound and charisma of a headlining act.

A mix of indie-folk music and country-rock, they're the kind of songs you feel like you've been listening to your whole life. I can't remember the last time I went to a show without ever having heard any of the songs, and left the bar wanting to buy the whole album.

There's no word yet on upcoming tours or additional Toronto dates, but I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for a chance to see these guys again.